Press Center

SENATOR LAVALLE FIGHTS TO PROTECT CRIME VICTIMS

FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR KENNETH P. LAVALLE

6/5/2008

Senator Kenneth P. LaValle today announced that legislation allowing crime victims to be notified of their perpetrator’s parole hearing has passed the Senate. This measure would ensure victims and possibly family members are notified of the parole hearing upon request and that they are given an opportunity to participate in the parole process.

According to Senator LaValle, current law allows a crime victim to submit a victim impact statement to the Parole Board, but there is no provision to notify the victim of when the hearing would be held. This measure corrects that flaw by requiring a notice be sent no later than 60 days prior to the hearing.

In a separate measure, the Senate passed a bill that would protect victims of domestic violence by allowing them to testify via closed-circuit television. This would provide a non-threatening environment and eliminate the possibility of victims being intimidated by their attacker.

"Victims of domestic violence often fear facing their attacker in open court,” said Senator LaValle. “This measure would provide a level of protection when speaking out against criminal activities and ensure that justice is served."

Both measures were sent to the Assembly.